Salvatore Ferragamo Vendemmia 2013 Review: A Rare Vintage For Men
Uncorking the Sophistication of a Limited Edition Olfactory Harvest
Launched as a limited edition in 2013, Salvatore Ferragamo''s Vendemmia 2013 is more than just a fragrance; it''s an olfactory snapshot of a specific harvest, a luxurious interpretation of the fine wines that often accompany moments of indulgence. This scent positions itself within the premium segment of Ferragamo''s fragrance portfolio, offering a distinct departure from their more universally appealing, everyday scents. The inspiration behind Vendemmia 2013 is rooted in the rich, complex, and aged character of vintage wine, aiming to evoke the warmth, depth, and sophistication associated with such an experience. It speaks of tradition, quality craftsmanship, and a certain refined opulence, making it a collector''s item for fragrance enthusiasts and a statement piece for those who appreciate its unique narrative and scent profile.
In the crowded market of designer fragrances, Vendemmia 2013 carved out a niche for itself by focusing on a mature, sophisticated aroma profile. It wasn''t aiming for mass appeal but rather for a discerning audience that values complexity and a narrative behind their scent. Compared to other Ferragamo offerings, which might lean towards fresher or more conventionally masculine profiles, Vendemmia 2013 delves into richer, darker territories. Its limited availability also contributed to its mystique and desirability, positioning it as a special occasion fragrance rather than a daily driver. The brand''s commitment to quality is evident in the composition, reflecting the meticulous attention to detail that Ferragamo is known for in its leather goods and footwear.
The concept of "Vendemmia," meaning harvest in Italian, is central to the fragrance''s identity. It''s about capturing the essence of a specific year''s grapes, the culmination of a season''s growth, and the transformation into something precious and aged. This translated into a scent that is both rich and nuanced, with elements that suggest the deep, fruity, and sometimes woody notes found in aged wine. The perfumer sought to translate the sensory experience of uncorking a fine bottle – the initial aroma, the evolving bouquet, and the lingering finish – into a wearable olfactive composition. This narrative allows the wearer to feel connected to a tradition of luxury and the art of fine aging, adding a layer of intellectual and sensory pleasure to the act of wearing the fragrance.
While not a mainstream blockbuster, Salvatore Ferragamo Vendemmia 2013 has garnered a dedicated following within fragrance communities for its unique character and high-quality execution. It''s often praised for its distinctiveness, steering clear of generic trends and offering something memorable. Its limited nature means it’s less about widespread cultural impact and more about its cult status among collectors and those who discovered its charm. Reviews often highlight its sophisticated blend, excellent performance, and the rich, almost boozy quality that makes it stand out. It represents a more artistic and artisanal approach to fragrance creation from a major designer house.
The Nose Behind the Scent
Olivier Polge. A renowned French perfumer, Olivier Polge is celebrated for his ability to craft complex and sophisticated fragrances. He comes from a lineage of perfumers, his father being Jacques Polge, the former in-house perfumer for Chanel. Olivier''s portfolio includes numerous successful scents for both designer and niche houses, such as Viktor & Rolf''s Spicebomb and several fragrances within Dior''s La Collection Privée. His work is characterized by balance, refinement, and a modern yet classic sensibility.
Accords
Notes Pyramid
Scent Journey
The fragrance opens with a sharp, aromatic, and slightly boozy burst. Juniper berries provide a clean, gin-like crispness, quickly followed by the dry, pungent heat of black pepper and the warm, aromatic spice of cardamom. This initial phase is invigorating and sets a sophisticated, slightly edgy tone.
As the opening notes fade, the heart reveals a complex spice blend. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove create a rich, warm, and subtly sweet core, reminiscent of mulled wine. The powdery earthiness of iris adds a layer of refined elegance, smoothing the spice profile.
The base notes form a deep, lingering foundation. Creamy tonka bean and warm, resinous amber blend with a sophisticated leather accord. Earthy patchouli and woody vetiver provide a grounding, sensual finish that is smooth and long-lasting.
Performance Dashboard
Excellent. Easily lasts 8-10 hours on skin, often longer.
Strong. Projects noticeably for the first 3-4 hours, then remains a strong presence.
Significant. Leaves a distinct and pleasant trail during its projection phase.
When to Wear
Community Verdict
Garners appreciation from those who enjoy sophisticated, mature scents; often described as intriguing and sexy.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Unique and sophisticated scent profile
- ✅ Exceptional longevity and performance
- ✅ Rich, warm, and luxurious aroma
- ✅ High-quality ingredients and blending
- ✅ Evokes maturity and refined confidence
- ❌ Limited edition, difficult to find and expensive on secondary market
- ❌ Polarizing notes for some
- ❌ Can be too heavy for lighter scent preferences
- ❌ Sharp initial opening for some noses
Price & Value
“Worth the investment for collectors and enthusiasts seeking its unique profile and performance, but high secondary price may deter casual buyers.”
📜 Reformulation History
No widely documented significant batch variations or reformulations. Minor differences may stem from natural ingredient variations due to limited production.
Who It's For
✅ Ideal For
- Men 25-50
- Sophisticated and mature personalities
- Appreciators of unique, complex scents
- Those who enjoy spicy, woody, and subtly boozy aromas
⚠️ Not Recommended For
- Individuals sensitive to strong, spicy notes
- Those seeking light, fresh, or universally crowd-pleasing fragrances
- Conservative office environments
The Family
Another limited edition ''Harvest'' fragrance with a distinct scent profile.
A subsequent limited edition ''Harvest'' release, separate from the 2013 scent.
Explore More
🔍 Similar Fragrances
Shares warm, spicy, and sweet notes with a complex drydown.
Offers a richer, boozier, and leathery take on a classic DNA.
Similar rich, warm, spicy, and sweet characteristics.
Features a dark, boozy, and sweet complexity.
Modern spicy-ambery scent with warmth and sensuality.
💡 Clone Alternatives
Dry down has woody-spicy complexity that some find reminiscent of rich designer scents.
Possesses a spicy and woody undertone that offers a different facet of bold masculinity.
❤️ You May Also Enjoy
For appreciation of sweet, spicy, and fruity blends with good performance.
For a mature, warm, spicy, and subtly sweet scent.
For its smooth, spicy, and seductive cardamom-driven aroma.
For appreciation of sophisticated woody and spicy compositions.
For its rich, amber-heavy, and opulent drydown.
More from salvatore-ferragamo
🧪 Layering Ideas
- Vanilla-based fragrances
- Light, clean musks
- Simple sandalwood or cedarwood colognes
🏆 Final Verdict
Salvatore Ferragamo Vendemmia 2013 is a masterclass in sophisticated perfumery, offering a unique olfactory journey that is both luxurious and deeply personal. If you are a fragrance connoisseur seeking a scent that deviates from the ordinary, this is a must-try. Its rich tapestry of spices, woods, and amber, expertly blended by Olivier Polge, creates an aroma that is warm, inviting, and undeniably elegant. The exceptional performance ensures that its complex narrative unfolds beautifully throughout the day and night, making it a perfect companion for special occasions or moments when you wish to exude confidence and refinement. While its limited edition status and consequent price on the secondary market demand consideration, for those who discover and fall in love with its vintage charm, Vendemmia 2013 represents an investment in a rare piece of olfactory art. It is a fragrance that speaks of maturity, discernment, and a deep appreciation for the finer things in life, much like a well-aged bottle of wine.